Substance Abuse Specialist

Description

The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities required of personnel so classified.

Position Summary:

The Substance Abuse Specialist, also known as the Dual Diagnosis Specialist will provide support to consumers affected by substance abuse and assist in the development of treatment plans(s) that are appropriate to the needs and desires of the consumer. The treatment plan(s) will aim to promote recovery and stability for community living and help the client to achieve higher levels of function.

Core Duties and Responsibilities:

• Screen and assess substance use.
• Carry a caseload of substance abusing mentally ill adult clients.
• Develop dual diagnosis services plan(s) that are appropriate to the needs and desires of the consumer.
• Monitor consumers' compliance with treatment as prescribed by treatment team - this may be done in the office or by means of field-based services.
• Assist with establishing coordination with local agencies in the provision of services.
• Assist with developing and maintaining substance abuse/dual diagnosis resource directory for agency.
• Arrange for medical care-exams/emergency shelter-food/education services for consumers at large.
• Facilitate support/self-help/psycho-educational groups for consumers, family members and the community at large.
• Participate in case disposition meetings on a routine basis.
• Attend and participate in in-service training and scheduled agency meetings.
• Provide and document dual diagnosis services in accordance with the Rehabilitation Option/Targeted Case Management requirements.
• Available as consultant for clinical staff concerning substance abuse assessment, diagnosis and treatment of dual diagnosis.
• Participate in interventions with treatment teams to address and monitor substance use.
• Participate in program development of dual diagnosis program.
• Meet with program supervisor regularly.
• Triage/screen walk-in/telephone calls for potential provision of services.
• Participate in the Mental Health education program provided to the community.
• Ensure that mental status and physical exams are conducted at least annually to assist in the determination of the appropriate level of mental health and medical treatment.
• Ensure that the frequency and intensity of services provided are consistent with the consumer's needs and desired treatment.
• Mentor and assist with training new staff as needed in the specifics and over all philosophy re: the treatment of substance abusing mentally ill adults.
• Arrange and monitor urinalysis as recommended by treatment team.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Comply with all Company policies and procedures as applicable.

Requirements

Minimum Education and Experience Preferred:

• High school diploma or equivalent plus two (2) year experience worknig with substance abusing individuals OR completion of 60 semester units or equivalent quarter units in an accredited college or university with specialization in substance abuse counseling, social work, psychology, sociology, or human services.
• Must have knowledge of dual diagnosis community resources and demonstrate ability to refer to appropriate level of care.
• Must have knowledge of substance abuse screening and assessment tools.
• Experience working with mental health consumers preferred but not required.

Licenses/Certifications:

• Registered or certified drug/alcohol counselor by an accredited program preferred, such as California Association for Alcohol and Drug Educators (CAADE), California Association of DUI Treatment Programs (CADTP), California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP).
• Valid California driver's license, current automobile insurance, and eligibility to drive for the Company preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to perform in a positive, courteous, flexible and adaptive manner.
• Able to exercise independent judgment and initiative.
• Computer literate and experienced with computer programs such as Microsoft Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• Experience using an electronic health record is a plus.
• Must be able to communicate clearly, both orally and in writing.
• Possess excellent organizational skills, including, but not limited to, the ability to prioritize and complete multiple tasks.
• Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.

Physical Requirements:

• See well enough (with or without corrected vision) to read fine print, hand-written materials, and a computer screen.
• Speak and hear well enough (with or without assistive device) to converse in person and by telephone.
• Finger, handle, feel, and reach with hands and arms, including ability to use a computer keyboard.
• Have the mobility (with or without assistive device) to stand, sit, crouch, and move from one work area to another.
• Have the strength to lift, carry or push office equipment and supplies used in normal job functions up to 20 lbs.
• Stamina to effectively perform work activities.